The IB Learner Profile

IB programmes promote the education of the whole person, emphasizing intellectual, personal, emotional and social growth through all domains of knowledge. By focusing on the dynamic combination of knowledge, skills, independent critical and creative thought and international-mindedness, the IB espouses the principle of educating the whole person for a life of active, responsible citizenship. Underlying the PYP, MYP and DP is the concept of education of the whole person as a lifelong process.

The aim of all IB programmes is to develop internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world. The IB learner profile is the IB mission statement translated into a set of learning outcomes for the 21st century. The attributes and descriptors of the learner profile define the type of learner the IB hopes to develop through its programmes.

IB learners strive to be:

Inquirers: They nurture their curiosity, developing skills for inquiry and research. They know how to learn independently and with others. They learn with enthusiasm and sustain their love of learning throughout life.

Knowledgeable: They develop and use conceptual understanding, exploring knowledge across a range of disciplines. They engage with issues and ideas that have local and global significance.

Thinkers: They use critical and creative thinking skills to analyse and take responsible action on complex problems. They exercise initiative in making reasoned, ethical decisions.

Communicators: They express themselves confidently and creatively in more than one language and in many ways. They collaborate effectively, listening carefully to the perspectives of other individuals and groups.

Principled: They act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness and justice and with respect for the dignity and rights of people everywhere. They take responsibility for their actions and their consequences.

Open-minded: They critically appreciate their cultures and personal histories, as well as the values and traditions of others. They seek and evaluate a range of points of view, and they are willing to grow from the experience.

Caring: They show empathy, compassion and respect. They have a commitment to service, and they act to make a positive difference in the lives of others and in the world around us.

Risk-takers: They approach uncertainty with forethought and determination; they work independently and cooperatively to explore new ideas and innovative strategies. They are resourceful and resilient in the face of challenges and change.

Balanced: They understand the importance of balancing different aspects of our lives - intellectual, physical, and emotional - to achieve well-being for ourselves and others. They recognise their interdependence with other people and with the world in which they live.

Reflective: They thoughtfully consider the world and their ideas and experience. They work to understand their strengths and weaknesses in order to support their learning and personal development.